Video of suicide prevention for adults with active suicide behaviour

Aim: To address the issue of suicide re-attempts by exploring the use of a video-based prevention program for working-age adults who have attempted suicide or are identified as experiencing suicide ideation.

Summary: A high-quality video will be created and tested for effectiveness in reducing the incidence of suicide ideation and/or active suicide behavior in adults. The scope includes a non-randomized group of 60 patients from hospital emergency and inpatient units and community programs in the Fraser Health Region at Royal Columbian Hospital.  Patients will be assessed immediately before and after viewing the video, and follow-up assessments will also be conducted at three and six months using the Beck Scales for Suicide Intent and Ideation.  

The video will be assessed for usefulness as an appropriate medium to present this type of information to this vulnerable population—in combination with clinical care—using a newly created satisfaction questionnaire.  Its possible use as a teaching tool for Healthcare Providers (HCPs), such as nurses and allied health professionals, will also be assessed. Efficacy will be measured using the Thomas Jefferson Scale for Empathy. The goal is to improve the patient and provider experience by increasing HCPs understanding and attitudes towards suicidal patients.